Baywatch Publicist Paul Nichols Dies at 76

Paul Nichols, the veteran publicist credited with saving 'Baywatch' from cancellation and popularizing it as the world's most-watched TV series, has died at age 76 at his Texas home, just 12 days after his wife Linda's passing. Nichols was instrumental in moving 'Baywatch' to first-run syndication in 1991 after NBC dropped it, leading to its global success and an estimated weekly audience of 1.1 billion across 142 countries. The show made international stars of David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson, and Donna D'Errico, with Nichols’ efforts contributing to its Guinness World Record and subsequent spin-offs and feature film. Cast members have since followed diverse paths, including Anderson's animal rights activism and D'Errico's continued public presence. The recent deaths of Nichols and former 'Baywatch' lifeguard actor Michael Newman mark a somber period for the show's legacy. No cause of death has been disclosed for Nichols.